Sherri’s Story
“Most people think of a TBI as a traumatic brain injury. I think of it as a Totally Brilliant Individual.”
Sherri was a young, married mother, pregnant with her second child and working as a network engineer at Strong Memorial Hospital when a virus changed her life forever. After undergoing extensive treatment that included a prolonged hospitalization and surgery, she delivered a healthy baby boy. Unfortunately, complications from the virus left Sherri with permanent brain damage, including depression and short-term memory loss, and she faced a long road of rehabilitation requiring intensive support.
But this is not a sad story. Sherri’s story is one of hope, resilience, and determination. With the support she received from EPI and several other community agencies—along with her incredible spirit—she went on to live a full and meaningful life. While her life looked very different after her traumatic brain injury, she made the most of each day.
After her divorce, Sherri lived independently in an apartment in Rochester, supported by EPI, other community agencies, her family, and her ex-husband. At EPI, she participated in the Structured Day Program, an adult learning environment where individuals with cognitive impairments from brain injuries engage in meaningful, life-enriching activities. Physically, Sherri did well, though she continued to experience short-term memory challenges which she learned not only to accept, but to embrace.
EPI staff supported Sherri in strengthening her cognitive skills and building meaningful connections. She grew closer to her parents and looked forward to weekly visits with her teenage sons.
Sherri dedicated herself fully, attending EPI five days a week. “At EPI, I like being together with other people who have had similar experiences,” she shared. She participated in memory activities, led games, and even taught fitness classes when possible. Interestingly, Sherri had an exceptional long-term memory and could vividly recall people and events from years past. Kareny Morales, a Structured Day Habilitator, fondly called her “a human dictionary,” saying, “If we don’t know a word, we ask Sherri.”
Sherri was strong, outgoing, and deeply appreciative of the support she received along her journey. “There is a light inside of Sherri that is so bright,” said Jeff Sinsebox, President of EPI. “When you talk to her, her positivity, good energy, and engaging spirit shine through. The strength is hers, and the recovery is hers. Our staff has simply been there to nurture and support her along the way.”
Note: Sherri passed away on December 22, 2025. We are deeply grateful for the time she spent with us at EPI and for the light and positivity she brought to each day.
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